Thai House Speaker Aims to Cultivate Next Generation for Constructive Parliamentary Debate

Sophon Saram, Speaker of the House of Representatives, presided over the awards ceremony and delivered a speech to participants of the "Suphawathi Season 3" activity, organized by the Parliament Radio and Television Station in collaboration with the Committee for Social Creative Debate Activities. Chada Thaiseth, an MP for Uthai Thani and a member of the Bhumjaithai Party, along with 300 students, also attended the event held at the Parliament Building. Saram congratulated the award recipients, especially the winning team, and encouraged those who did not receive awards to further develop themselves using the feedback and techniques from the committee. He emphasized that success can be built through practice and development, stating that speaking is a crucial skill reflecting thought, knowledge, and communication ability, echoing the proverb "The mouth is paramount, numbers are secondary." He highlighted that debate is an art of speaking that can lead to career opportunities. The Speaker announced that Parliament plans to create opportunities for youth nationwide to express their potential creatively and equally. Two formats, "Suphawathi" and "Mock Parliament," are being prepared to be organized at the regional level, with representatives selected to compete for the national championship at Parliament. He expressed hope that in the next 10 to 20 years, the nature of debates in the House of Representatives will change, starting with instilling these values in today's youth. "One thing elders have asked me to convey is, Mr. Speaker, please do not forget to tell our children to cherish their homeland. Therefore, this Parliament and its executives will train you to preserve our homeland," Saram stated. The "Suphawathi Season 3" competition offered high school students an opportunity to practice analytical thinking and creative communication. Seventy-two educational institutions sent teams, with 16 teams advancing to the competition rounds. A panel of experts served as judges. Results showed Triam Udom Suksa School as the champion, receiving 100,000 baht, a trophy, and a certificate. Suranaree School secured second place with 80,000 baht, and Nawaminthrachinuthit Triam Udom Suksa Pattanakarn School took third place with 60,000 baht, along with trophies and certificates. Consolation prizes were also awarded to participating schools. Source: INN News